Share via

Purpose:

Players practice defensive and offensive fundamentals in a game-type situation.

Setup:

  • Mark off a grid that is approximately 20 yards long by 20 yards wide. Put a goal at each end. You can make the goal using cones if needed.
  • Put a cone at the half line. Also put a cone on the sideline.

Instructions:

  1. Divide your players into two equal-numbered teams.
  2. There are no goalies.
  3. Players can only score from the scoring zone, which is from the cone to the goal it is in front of.

Coaching Tips:

  • Require all players to defend, play tough defense, and block shots.
  • Good off-the-ball defending comes down to two things: staying in a good position and the defender staying with their man.
  • On offense, players must play together using effective passing, dribbling, and off-the-ball movement to get the ball into the scoring zone. Only within that zone can shots be taken.

Tips for Younger Athletes:

  • Encourage constant communication with teammates to maintain awareness.
  • Focus on using both feet to dribble and pass to improve overall skills.
  • Emphasize keeping their heads up to see the field and make better decisions.

Tips for Older Athletes:

  • Work on quick transitions from defense to offense to capitalize on counter-attacks.
  • Practice advanced dribbling techniques like feints and body fakes to create space.
  • Reinforce the importance of spatial awareness and positioning to control the game flow effectively.
Share via